The Lexus IS safety credentials were given a boost when it scored a maximum five-star rating in official Euro NCAP crash tests and all cars come with eight airbags (including driver and passenger knee airbags), whiplash reducing seat design and headlamps that swivel with the steering to give better lighting on corners. The IS250 SE-L when fitted with automatic transmission is offered with a pre-crash safety system which uses the radar system from its adaptive cruise control to predict when an accident is unavoidable.

In certain cases it will tighten seatbelts to draw passengers into the safest position and trigger the brake assistance for maximum braking power

With 378 litres of boot space, the IS is poor compared to other saloons – the BMW 3-Series for example has 460 litres. The narrow opening means loading large objects is tricky plus there’s considerable intrusion from the wheelarches. There’s no estate version either but stowage up front is good with a large central cubby (under the armrest) and a decent glove box.